The Narrow Escape of Heraclius from the Avars. This incident took place during the Avaric raids of the early eighth century AD. The Emperor Heraclius; having been asked to meet the Khakhan of the Avars in council at Perinthus; found himself about to be ambushed and made prisoner. Tearing off and flinging away his robes; he saved himself by the speed of his horse; and reached the town-gates just in time. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson; c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.